Headcovers protect your clubs from bumps and scratches in the bag, reduce noise and add a touch of personality. Most golfers use them on their driver, fairway woods, hybrids and putter. Here's what they do and how to choose them.
Why use headcovers?
- Protection: clubs knock together in the bag and in transit.
- Resale value: well-kept clubs are worth more. Read what to do with old golf clubs.
- Noise: fewer rattles while walking.
- Weather: some protection from rain.
- Identification and style.
Which clubs need them?
| Club | Cover recommended? |
|---|---|
| Driver | Yes |
| Fairway woods | Yes |
| Hybrids | Yes |
| Putter | Yes |
| Irons | Optional |
| Wedges | Optional |
Types
- Sock-style knits with pom-poms: traditional and fun.
- Synthetic leather with numbers: durable and neat.
- Magnetic putter covers: quick on and off.
- Iron covers: sets of small covers.
- Novelty covers: animals, mascots and personalised designs. Read gift ideas for golfers.
Choosing headcovers
- Secure fit so they don't fall off.
- Easy to remove and replace.
- Durable materials.
- Adjustable number tags for fairway woods and hybrids.
Don't lose them
- Attach a clip or tether.
- Check after each hole where you used the club.
- Bright colours are easier to spot.
Travelling
Headcovers add protection in travel bags. Read travelling with golf clubs.
Headcovers for irons and putters
- Iron covers: less common, but popular with golfers who want to protect forged irons from bag chatter, or who travel a lot. Some golfers find them fiddly and slow.
- Putter covers: strongly recommended. Putter faces, particularly soft inserts, mark easily. Blade covers suit blade putters; mallet covers suit larger heads. Read how to choose a putter.
- Wedge covers: rare, but some players use them on travel trips.
Materials compared
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Synthetic leather | Durable, easy to clean, smart look | Can crack over time |
| Knitted | Traditional style, flexible fit | Absorbs water, can stretch |
| Neoprene | Snug fit, protective, water-resistant | Can get warm and grippy |
| Real leather | Premium look and feel | Expensive, needs care |
| Novelty or plush | Fun, easy to identify | Bulky, absorbs water |
Keeping headcovers in good condition
- Dry them after rain: remove them from the clubs and let both dry separately to prevent rust and mildew.
- Clean them with a damp cloth or, for some knitted covers, a gentle hand wash.
- Check the fit: loose covers fall off; replace them before they're lost.
- Label them with your name or initials in case they're left behind.
Personalising headcovers
Headcovers are one of the easiest ways to make your bag your own. Many golfers use them to:
- Show club colours or hobbies.
- Mark milestones, such as a hole in one or a club championship.
- Give as gifts. Read golf gift ideas.
Personalised covers are also easier to identify if they're left on a tee.
How many do you need?
Most golfers use three or four: driver, fairway wood, hybrid and putter. Iron covers are optional, and travel covers can be added for trips. Read golf travel packing list.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need headcovers on my irons?
Not necessary, but they reduce noise and marks.
Why use a driver headcover?
Driver crowns are thin and mark easily.
Do headcovers affect the rules?
No. They're just accessories.
How do I stop losing headcovers?
Use clips, bright colours and check after each hole.
Should I use headcovers on my hybrids?
Yes. Hybrids are close to woods in construction, and covers help protect their faces and crowns.
Do putter covers need to be magnetic?
No, but magnetic closures are quick and secure. Choose what you find easiest.
The bottom line
Headcovers are inexpensive protection for your most delicate clubs. Use them on woods, hybrids and putters, and keep track of them on the course. For club care, read how to clean and care for golf clubs.